The prospect of the iconic Land Rover Defender being legislated out of existence has disappeared with the disclosure of the 2007 model.

Key to the Defender’s future is a modified version of the 2.4-litre turbo-diesel from the current Transit, developing 121hp at 3,500rpm.

As well as being tuned to develop a broader spread of torque – no less than 315Nm is on tap from 1,500 to 2,700rpm – the engine is also able to cope with the widely varying quality of fuel quality available in the Defender’s global markets.

The engine is mated to a new MT82 six-speed transmission which provides a lower first gear and a 20% higher top gear.

Apart from the absence of the familiar underscreen vents and the addition of a bonnet bulge to accommodate the new engine, the exterior remains largely unchanged, but the interior has had a comprehensive redesign.

The dashboard borrows instrumentation from the new Freelander, while heating, stowage, audio and seating are all completely renewed.

The occasional seats in the loadspace of the 90 and 110 models are now full-sized, forward-facing items.

Pricing is expected to be broadly similar to the current model